Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Peace River town council was presented with four new applications to consider regarding its grants to organizations at its regular meeting on Sept 22.
Mayor Elaine Manzer says there has been an increase in applicants this year, with four total applications received before the final intake deadline of this fiscal year.
“When organizations apply for funding through the grants to organizations program, they are invited to present to council,” explains Manzer.
“Two applicants, Art Hub and library, were able to attend to present this time.”
Peace River Art Hub has applied for $6,000 to help with tourism promotions, while the Peace River Municipal Library applied for $500 to help with Festival of Trees. Miserable Miles has applied for $5,000 to help fund its obstacle race, and Northern Lites Speed Skating has applied for $956.40 for ice and room rental for its annual race and ability meet and Arctic Winter Games Camp.
“For many (organizations), the funding from the Town provides enough assistance to make the events organized by these groups to be viable,” explains Manzer.
“All funding decisions should be made at the next regular meeting on Oct. 6.”
Manzer says Peace River Art Hub adds variety and a welcoming place for a wide variety of artists as well as programming.
“It is truly a Hub for artists in Peace River and our region with over 200 artists with memberships,” she says.
Manzer says the library has a great gallery which features a variety of art throughout the year.
“The library is a busy hub for all ages of readers as well as offering programs that entice children to want to read,” she adds.
Manzer explains Miserable Miles provides an activity that brings competitors of all ages and various parts of the region for a fun activity. She adds people can compete for time or also choose to do the course.
“Northern Lites Speed Skating Club provides another activity that many are interested in participating in and also one were the skaters can go to competitions,” Manzer notes.
Intakes for the program are every four months. The total annual budget for 2025 grants was $50,000 with under $10,000 remaining in this year’s budget.
Manzer says each year council discusses changes to the program to ensure it is helping in the most efficient way possible.
“This is an annual budget discussion, and the decision does include discussions of the number of applicants in previous years and the amounts they applied for,” says Manzer.
“This money is allocated from general taxation revenues,” she adds.
Manzer says an advantage of the program is allowing council to place emphasis on funding projects that support substantial community events that help to draw economic activity.